The Referrals Committee, Peter Allen (in the Chair), Mrs J.O. Onions and Sean Barry met at the Turf Club, The Curragh, Co. Kildare on Friday, 11th October 2013 to consider the referral of P.J. Rothwell, trainer, by Denis Egan, Chief Executive of the Turf Club following a random stable inspection carried out at his Training Establishment on 23rd August 2013 by Turf Club Officials, Michael O’Donoghue and Ms. Nicola O’Connor M.R.C.V.S.   During the visit the officials found that 8 riders were exercising horses without wearing body protectors.   Evidence was heard from P.J. Rothwell.  The Committee also considered a written report on the visit from Michael O’Donoghue and Nicola O’Connor M.R.C.V.S.   In his evidence P.J. Rothwell accepted that he was in breach of Rule 148(v)(b) as he was ultimately responsible for ensuring that his staff wore appropriate safety equipment.  He said he was not aware of the rule but accepted that this was not a valid excuse.  As a result of the inspection, Mr. Rothwell said he had now purchased body protectors for all his staff and ensured that they wore them at all times when exercising horses.

Having considered the evidence, the Referrals Committee noted Mr. Rothwell’s acceptance that he was in breach of the rule and the frankness of the evidence given by him.  They said that ignorance of a rule is not a defense and as a result he was fined €300 for being in breach of the rule.

  The case was presented by Denis Egan, Chief Executive of the Turf Club, Curragh, Co. Kildare.